Man Utd transfer round-up: Koeman's stance on Dembele as two targets prioritised

 

Manchester United has been linked with a number of big names ahead of the summer transfer window as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to strengthen his squad in preparation for a title challenge.

As the season nears its end, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is already thinking about next season at Manchester United.

The Red Devils are on track for a strong second-place finish, and they could win their first trophy under their new boss.

However, Solskjaer is well aware that his team is not yet at the level required to compete for the championship.

After a turbulent transfer window last summer, United manager Jose Mourinho will be anxious to have his ducks in a row well ahead of deadline day to prevent a last-minute scramble.

With that in mind, here are the most recent updates and rumors from Old Trafford.

Dembele gets a message from Koeman

After being touted as a replacement for Jadon Sancho last summer, Barcelona's Ousmane Dembele is still being linked with a move to United.

This season, the 23-year-old has been in excellent form under Ronald Koeman and has been all Barca hoped for when they paid nearly £100 million for him.

However, with just over a year left on his current contract, Barcelona must make a decision, and due to financial constraints, 

But, after seeing Dembele score a late winner in the victory over Valladolid on Monday, Koeman is optimistic that it won't come to that.

'I'd like Dembele to stay because he's a crucial player for us,' Koeman said.

'Today, he showed that with his success and goal. The main thing is that he has grown physically and has been able to play several games in a row.'

Prioritization of two goals

Erling Haaland is the name on everyone's lips right now, and it's no different around Old Trafford.

Last week, the striker's representatives are said to have met with United executives to negotiate a possible move.

United, on the other hand, does not seem to be planning a move this summer, choosing to concentrate on two other places.

Even though United signed Amad in January, a right-winger is still on Solskjaer's wish list, according to The Athletic.

In addition, the manager's priority is to solve the center-back issue next to Harry Maguire.

United are reportedly interested in Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic, though they have maintained their interest in Borussia Dortmund player Jadon Sancho but could be priced out of an offer once more.

Following Solskjaer's decision to ax David de Gea in favor of Dean Henderson, three clubs across Europe have been placed on high alert.

The United manager has finally agreed to shake up his starting lineup, with the Spaniard officially weighing his options.

If Henderson has a good finish to the season, De Gea is unlikely to be re-instated and could pursue a new challenge rather than deputizing on the bench.

According to The Mail, PSG, Atletico Madrid, and Real Madrid are all keeping an eye on the 30-year-situation olds in the hopes of making a move.